Using your BBQ is always an exciting and fun time but it can also become quite expensive if you aren’t watching the price tags. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just grilling out on a weekend, here are ways to keep costs low while serving great-tasting meals. Check out these frugal foodie BBQ grill recipes that won’t break the bank.

1.    Honey-Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs 

Compared to pricier things like breasts or wings, chicken thighs are on the lower side of the price scale and when grilled properly, they are amazing. Try this recipe on for size! Preparing your sweet chilli glaze: Mix honey, lime juice, garlic and a splash of soy sauce and olive oil into a bowl & whisk together. Marinate the chicken thighs using this mixture for at least an hour. Grill the thighs over medium heat until fully cooked at 165°F internally. They are sweet, tangy and perfectly balanced with succulent, tender chicken.

2.    Grilled Garlic Herb Butter Vegetable Skewers 

Vegetables are not only inexpensive but also add a healthy touch to every BBQ. For the adventurous vegetable connoisseur, here is a great recipe using a blend of bell peppers, onions, zucchini and white mushrooms. To get more flavour into your vegetables, mix melted butter with minced garlic (adjust the level of garlic based on your preferences), chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme and newly milled salt. Brush this butter mixture over your sliced veggies before grilling. Cook the skewers on a barbecue over medium heat, turning often until vegetables are tender, and lightly charred.

3.    BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders 

Pork shoulder, also called pork butt, is your cheapest route to a plateful of pulled pork. Before you begin, season the pork with a mix of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and just a pinch of cayenne. Place the seasoned pork in a crockpot, add BBQ sauce and slow cook until it’s tender enough to shred. Lastly, throw the pulled pork on a grill for just enough time to char and gather some of that smoky flavour. Voila, your classic BBQ treat of pulled pork with slaw on a slider bun.

4.    Chilli-Lime Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob 

Kirsty from The Garden Living Company, says “Corn on the cob is a BBQ staple, and it’s super cheap, especially in summer. Slather the corn with chilli-lime butter before grilling to take this simple side dish over the top. Make yourself a golden butter by combining soft butter with lime zest, chilli powder and a pinch of salt.” Roast corn on the open flame till brown spots form then roll them to get all sides charred uniformly. The spicy, tangy butter works well with the sweetness of the corn to give you a tasty BBQ side.

5.    BBQ Baked Beans 

Skip the pricey canned beans and make your own for less at home. Beginning with navy beans, or pinto beans, combine them with your favourite BBQ sauce, brown sugar, onions and just a tad bit of bacon. Simmer the beans in a cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat on the grill until bubbling and the liquid has thickened. The smoky flavour will be sealed into the beans, enhancing them as an appetizing side dish.

Delicious BBQ Dishes for the Price-Conscious

These are tasty BBQ grill recipes that won’t break the bank! Not only are these dishes simple to whip up, but they also have bold flavours that demonstrate you do not need to spend loads of cash on eating well. Get the grill going and indulge in a delicious BBQ meal with your guest without digging too deep into those pockets. Happy grilling!